As they ascended, Clary's thoughts returned to the little boy she had come all this way to see. Her voice took on a more urgent tone as they reached the top. "Bring Karen to me at once," she demanded, a hint of impatience slipping through despite her best efforts to stay composed.
Annabelle turned to her with a reassuring smile as they walked down the hallway adorned with framed photos and artwork. "I'm sure they're in the living room upstairs," she said, her tone soothing. "He'll be so excited to see you." She gestured towards the open door at the end of the corridor. Sunlight streamed through the windows of the upper living area, casting a warm glow across the space.